Further restrictions are coming for Windsor-Essex as the province moves the region to the yellow or protect level on the COVID-19 Response Framework.
As he announced new thresholds for the framework, Premier Doug Ford told residents he wouldn't hesitate to take further action to slow the spread.
"We're staring down the barrel of another lockdown and I will not hesitate for a second if we have to go further because our number one priority right now is getting these numbers down," said Ford.
Windsor-Essex will officially be in the yellow level as of Monday, November 16 at 12:01 a.m.
In addition to the provincial restrictions in place while the region is in the yellow level, local Medical Officer of Health Dr. Wajid Ahmed is issuing further restrictions.
Restaurants and bars will be required to close at midnight and are not allowed to serve alcohol between 11 p.m. and 9 a.m. Karaoke will not be permitted.
Dr. Ahmed is also prohibiting all personal care services that require the removal of a mask or face covering. Whirlpools, baths, floating pools or sensory deprivation pods must be closed, unless they are used for a therapeutic purpose prescribed by, or administered by a regulated health professional.
Individuals are being asked to limit contacts to their household and to avoid visiting others in their homes. All gatherings will be limited to 10 people indoors or 25 people outdoors.
According to Dr. Ahmed, these restrictions will be enforced with zero tolerance.
"If someone is found guilty they should be charged and they should be charged immediately. There is not time anymore for us to continue to do the education. We need to take that action," said Dr. Ahmed.
On Friday, the health unit reported 35 new cases of COVID-19. There are now 185 active cases in the region.
